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Second Language Studies Certificates

Overview:

The purpose of the Graduate certificate program in Second Language Studies (SLS) is to enhance the preparation and professionalization of graduate students in the School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures (SLLC), the Department of Linguistics, and other departments affiliated with SLLC. The certificate provides an opportunity at KU for graduate students of foreign language, literature, and culture and theoretical linguistics to add a concentration in applied linguistics and language teaching.

Certificate Requirements:

The certificate is awarded to M.A. or Ph.D. students who successfully complete 4 graduate-level courses across disciplines (12 credits total) as outlined below:

LING 700 Introduction to Linguistics or equivalent offered in each participating department.

LING 715 Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition

LA&S 720 Introduction to Language Teaching Research

Elective course in Second Language Studies. This may be fulfilled by a Teaching Methods course required of GTAs teaching in the SLLC (FREN 704, SLAV 824, SPAN 801) or by other approved related courses, including those offered by the School of Education.

A student who has prior coursework deemed equivalent to any of the required courses may replace the required course with an approved elective.

Admissions:

Current KU Students

A student must be in good standing with their graduate degree program in order to participate in the certificate program. A graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is required for admission. The application process entails completing the online application, payment of the $30 application fee, and submitting materials required for the Second Language Studies (SLS) Certificate:

A C.V. or Resume.

A personal statement declaring your interest in Second Language Studies and its relationship to your graduate course of study and/or career objectives.

1 letter of recommendation from your graduate degree program.

A KU Advising report in lieu of an official transcript.

Non-KU students or KU Alumni

Non-KU students or KU Alumni must have a previously completed advanced degree in an applicable field with a graduate GPA of 3.0 of higher. The application process entails completing the online application, submitting materials required for the Second Language Studies (SLS) Certificate:

A C.V. or Resume.

A personal statement declaring your interest in Second Language Studies and its relationship to your graduate course of study and/or career objectives.

2 letters of recommendation from persons familiar with your academic work or potential for graduate study.

Official transcripts from any institutions where coursework related to study in your second language was completed.